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While a person can count calories consumed or miles walked without the help of a digital tracking device, it’s nearly impossible to track sleep without assistance. Studies have shown that people do not accurately recall night waking, and that the more sleep deprived they are, the more they underestimate their impairment. Doctors often focus on diet and exercise and overlook sleep, though it affects things like workplace productivity, driving skills, sociability and weight. Some researchers say the new technology can help focus attention on the problem.
More advanced devices combine sensors with health information. The SleepRate system uses cognitive behavioral therapy, licensed from Stanford University, to treat insomnia. SleepRate users wear a heart rate monitor while their cellphone microphones monitor nighttime sounds. Based on data analysis after five days, people showing signs of insomnia are presented with a personalized sleep regimen.
The suggestions are basic, but a randomized control trial found they were effective in 85 percent of cases, according to the company. They include waking at the same time every day; stopping invigorating activity half an hour before bedtime and using the bed only for sleep and sex.
“It’s all behavioral, and it’s all trying to train the brain to go to sleep when it’s time to go to sleep,” said Uli Gal-Oz, chief executive of @SleepRate.
To read the full article written by Claire Cain Miller on The New York Times, please click here.